Ruttaphon emphasized that some DSI officers allowed to carry guns must obtain permission from the Director-General first. He personally owns a gun at home with a valid P.4 license but never carries it. He regards the Prime Minister's gun-carrying ban policy as a positive development.
At 06:35 on 12 August 2026, Police Lieutenant General Ruttaphon Nawarat, Minister of Justice, commented on the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul’s measure banning officials from carrying guns. Regarding whether the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has issued directives to officers, Ruttaphon said that according to internal regulations, some officers are allowed to carry guns but must have a carrying license and be on duty.
They must also have a second confirmation license, forming a two-tier system.
When asked if this policy required special instructions, Ruttaphon said he has instructed officers—mostly DSI personnel who must carry firearms, including government-issued weapons and personal guns—to obtain approval from the Director-General.
Regarding whether he, as a former police officer, owns a gun and how he manages it, Ruttaphon said he keeps one at home for legal property protection, holding a P.4 license. Since becoming a civil servant, he has not been an operational officer and has never carried a gun, especially now, when carrying is even less necessary.
On 11 August, at a Bhumjaithai Party meeting, the Prime Minister also emphasized this issue. Ruttaphon said the Prime Minister instructed the Cabinet that even his aides would be subject to random checks. This is a good measure to randomly inspect aides—whether actual or unofficial—to ensure officials act correctly. He believes these inspections will begin around the House of Representatives opening day.